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THE ^ Q Q 



PRESENT STATE AND CONDITION 



OF THE 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR, 

J/V- 






CITY OF PHILADELPHIA 



AND 



ADJOINING DISTRICTS, AS EXHIBITED BY THE 

REPORT 



OF Ky" 



COMMITTEE OF THE PENNSYLVANIA SOCIETY 

FOR 
PROMOTING THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY, &c. 



Read First Month (Jan.) 5th, 1838. 



-S PHILADELPHIA.' 
PUBLISHED BY THE SOCIETY. 

MERKIHEW AND GUNN, PRINTERS, 

No. 7 Carter's Alley. 
183a 



e: 







V 

> 



INTRODUCTION, 



-#**■ 



The Pennsylvania Society for Promoting the Abolition of 
Slavery, desirous of obtaining an accurate knowledge of the con- 
dition, resources, and capabilities of improvement of the Colored 
People of the City and Districts, on the 12th of the First month, 
1837, appointed a Committee, consisting of Joseph Parrish, M.D., 
the President of the Society, Isaac Barton, Edward Needles, 
James Mott, Joseph M. Truman, Wm. Harned, Daniel Neall, 
Peter Wright, Edward Hopper, Joshua Rhoads, M. D.,* L. C. 
Gunn, and Isaac Parrish, M. D., to "collect, as far as practicable, 
and preserve such statistical and other information as will show the 
present condition of the colored population of this city and dis- 
tricts," in reference to " Population, value of Real and Personal 
Estate, amount of Taxes paid by them, state of Education, 
amount of Pauperism and Crime as compared with the white 
population, &c. ;" as well as " any other information which the 
Committee shall acquire and deem useful to the Society." 

The Committee assumed the arduous duty, had frequent meet- 
ings, and pursued its investigations with persevering industry. 
It employed agents to visit every colored family in the city and 
suburbs, to ascertain the requisite facts as nearly as the nature of the 
case would admit. 

The Committee made the following report to the Society, on the 

♦In place of (Jf.oiujk Pknnock, who was unable to serve. 



I INTROniTTION. 

.nil of the First ninntli, ls:<s, and were continued to pursue their 
investigations ; and the following resolution was adopted by the 
Society: 

Resolved, That the report be again referred to the Committee, 
with instructions to make such additions as they deem necessary, 
and have it printed. 

JOSEPH PABRI8H, President. 

Joshi \ Rbo ids, St i retary. 



To the Pennsylvania Society for Proinotin: 
the Abolition of Slavery, &c. 



The Committee appointed by a resolution of the Society, on 
the 12th of First month, 1S37, to collect statistical informa- 
tion as to the present state and condition of the people of 
color, in the City and adjacent Districts, respectfully 

REPORT: 

That, soon after their appointment, the Committee was or- 
ganized, and commenced the labor assigned to it; and with 
occasional intermission, continued to perform it up to the pre- 
sent period. Although they found it impracticable, in conse- 
quence of the labor and funds it would require, to pursue the 
investigation to the full extent of the resolution, they have, 
nevertheless, obtained much useful information upon the most 
important inquiries proposed by the Society, which they will 
now proceed to communicate, under distinct heads, for the 
purpose of more convenient reference. In order that the in- 
formation sought for should be obtained with as much accuracy 
as possible, the Committee deemed it advisable to employ 
agents to visit the colored families residing in the City and 
Districts; and were fortunate in finding persons whom they 
believe, from the satisfactory manner in which they have per- 
formed their duty, were fully competent, and whose reports 
may be relied upon. The expense incurred beyond the sum ap- 
propriated by the Society, has been provided for by private sub- 
scriptions. The information obtained by the agents, relates 

1. To the Number of the Colored Population. 

The Agents report: — 

In the City, 2331 families, containing 8462 individuals. 

Northern Liberties, 209 do. do. 878 do. 

Kensington, 86 do. do. 359 do. 

Spring Garden, 13G do. do. 507 do. 

Soulhwark, 255 do. do. 931 do. 

Moyamensing, 635 do. do. 2454 do. 

Making 3652 families do. 13591 individuals, 

Being an average of nearly four individuals to each family. 



CONDITION "K nil: 



La the agents were confined in their visits to the houses of 
iln- colored population, the tbove number of individual is in- 
dependent of those who may be at service in while families, 
which may account, to those who refer to the census oi 16 
for an apparent decrease; that census allotting to those dis- 
tricts 1 1,461 colored persons. The Committee, feeling some 
anxiety to test the accuracy of the numhers reported by the 
agents, resorted to the following reasoning and calculations on 
the subject, which to them appear satisfactory and conclusive. 
By the United States census m L820, i1 is stated, that there were 
in the city and liberties of Philadelphia 10,746 colored per- 
sons, of whom 7,646 were then ascertained (by an active 
member of this Society, stnet led) to he inmates of 

colored families, and 3,100 residing in other families. The 
increase of colored persons in this city and districts, between 

L820 and 1830, was, according to the last census, about 37 

per cent.; a! the same ratio, the increase since 1830, for the 
eight years, would he ahout 30 per cent., making a total aug- 
mentation at the present time of <>7 per cent,, which will give 
the total number of persons in colored families L 2,768, being 
hut 823 persons less than that ascertained by the agents — a 
difference so small, under the circumstances, as to afford to 
the Committee Strong evidence of the accuracy of their report. 
These data heing established, the Committee, in the ahsence 
of other means, proceed from them to estimate the number of 
colored persons at this time not resident in colored families. 
In 1820, ihev were ascertained to he 3,100. At the same ratio 
ofincreaseasin the colored families, from that time to this, they 
should now amount to 5,177, which, added to those residing 
in colored families, will give an entire colored population at 
this time of 1 -.7'-. 

2. Real Estate and Personal Property. 
In 1821, the assessors returned (agreeably to report of the 
member before referred to,) 229 estates within the city and 
liberties, belonging to colored persons, and estimated their 
value at Si 12,464. There appears to be no information 
from which the value of their personal property at that time 
can be ascertained; 1,970 colored persons were then returned, 
as subject to taxation; whether the tax was imposed and paid 
the Committee have not learned. Neither have the Commit- 
tee ascertained what rule the assessors in 1821 adopted in 
their valuation of property; but supposing it the same then 
as now, viz. 10 per cent, of the real market value, the actual 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 



worth of the real estate held by colored persons would then have 
been $281,162. • 

The agents have ascertained the real and personal estate 
of the colored population at this time, to be 



In this City, 

Northern Liberties, 
Kensington, 
Spring Garden, . 
Southwark, 
Moyamensing, . 



Real, Personal. 

$241,962 $505,322 

26,700 35,539 

2,255 3,825 

5,935 21,570 

15,355 26,848 

30,325 74,755 



322,532 667,859 

Less incumbrances, 12,906 



309,626 



Making an aggregate of $977,485, in real and personal 
property. 

This amount must, of course, be received as only an ap- 
proximation to the truth; for after all, the value of real estate 
is a matter of opinion, formed upon the best judgment of the 
persons making it, from the information obtained, and from 
a knowledge of circumstances affecting the value of pro- 
perty. But the committee have reason to believe that it will 
be found, from a comparison of facts, to be actually below 
the true value, rather than above it — for 

1. It appears that the above estimate is only $41,370 more 
than the value in 1821, as before ascertained; a difference 
certainly not equal to the advance of property since that 
period, owing to the gradual improvements of the city, even 
supposing that the colored population are not in possession 
of more real estate now than they were then. 

2. By a memorial* of the colored people to the Legislature 
in 1832, it appears, that by reference to receipts of tax pay- 
ers, actually produced, they then paid upwards of $2,500 
taxes; which, at the same mode of 40 per cent, of the real 
market value, would make the capital assessed $357,000, and 
upwards. 

3. Again, taking the amount of taxes ascertained by the 
agent to have been paid last year, and finding in the same 
manner the capital assessed, it would now amount to $463,040. 

4. In the above estimate are not included, fifteen meeting 

♦Hazard's Register of Pennsylvania, vol. ix. p. 361. 



B 



< ONDITION ok THE 



houses, and burial grounds, and a public hall; eleven of which, 
by the above memorial, were estimated .^ $100,000, in l v 
additions have no doubt been made to the other public build- 
ings. The Cmmoittee, therefore, feel fully warranted in be- 
lieving the real estate owned by tbe colored population to be 
worth 5 i" £600,000. 

In regard to personal property, the Committee have no offi- 
cial documents by which to compare the statements of the 
t, which give the amounl <>f 8667,859 divided among 
52 families, which will average #183 to each. This esti- 
mate embraces no1 onl) household furniture, cash <>n hand, 
d, bu1 all other kinds of personal property; 
and is confined to those alone who constitute colored families. 
li is, therefore, believed to be sufficiently moderate, and mosl 
probablj will fall below the real amount To this sum musl 
be added some estimate of the personal property of indivi- 
duals at service in white families, whom we have before set 
down at 5.177. Although it is true, that man} of these possess 
no property of value, yet it is known thai some of them art 
depositors in savings banks, to the value of several hundred 
dollars, or have money invested in stock, bearing interest. It 
is believed entirely safe to estimate tbis class at $25 each, 
which would make the sum of 0129/125 

which added to tbe ascertained amount of those 
residing in colored families, viz., 667,859 

will make a total of ll '7,284 

It will, therefore, probably not exceed the truth if we con- 
sider the amount of personal property owned by these two 
classes, at ">,000 

to which add real estate, 550,000 



and we have in real and personal property 

3. Taxes. 

Tbe agent reports these in the 

City, at .... 

Northern Liberties, 
Kensington, .... 
Spring Garden, 

Southwark, .... 
M yamensing, 



£1,350,000 



$2,184 23 

235 30 

42 00 

86 70 

220 25 

484 35 

.2 83 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 



As this amount corresponds with the taxes paid in 1832, — 
as ascertained from an actual exhibition of receipts, before re- 
ferred to, allowing for an increase of the value of property — 
the Committee consider this item sufficiently correct. 

4. House Rents, &c. 

It appears from the report of the agent, that they pay for 
House rent, .... $161,008 00 
Water rents, .... 464 50 

Ground rents, .... 5,491 00 

Making a total, $166,963 50 

The first item averages about $44 per family, which appears 
sufficiently moderate, when the comfortable manner in which 
many of them live is considered, and making due allowance 
for the number living in their own houses who pay no rent. 
To these amounts might properly be added the sums ex- 
pended by these colored families, in common with other citi- 
zens, for the maintenance of their families, which we shall 
notice hereafter. 

5. Of the Employment of the Colored Population, and 
views connected with their labor and support. 

That some portion of them may live in idleness, is admitted, 
in common with some portion of the whites of the same class; 
but that a large proportion of them are usefully and industri- 
ously employed, cannot be denied. If other evidence were 
wanting, that furnished by our agents would be sufficient to 
convince those who have held a different opinion. We here 
present a catalogue of the employments as furnished by the 
agents. 

Washing, Bakers, 

Laborers, Watermen, 

Buiscuit makers, Brickmakers, 

Porters, Tayloresses, 

Waiters, Plain sewing, 

Hatters, Boarding houses, 

Seamen, Eating houses, 

Cooks, Oyster cellars, 

Dress makers, Grocers, 

Coachmen, Stewards, 

Seamstresses, Sweeps, 

White washers, Painters, 



Hair dressers t & barbers, Ship carpenters, 
Musicians, Bleeders, 

Nurses, Dentists, 



Brass founders, 

Millers, 

Coopers, 

Plumbers, 

Bricklayers, 

Rope makers, 

Oil dealers, 

Basket makers, 

Wall colorers, 

Cake bakers, 

Barbers and perfumers, 

Well diggers, 

Tin plate workers, &c. 

Stablers, 

Sextons, 



2 



10 



10NPITI0N OK TIIK 



Sboemakei . Physicians, Mi<l wires. 

Clothe* dealers, Cup) Hair workers, 

1 --, ..11.-, Hackmen, 

Huck- Brashmal Butchers, 

nen, ( niifeclioners, Pastrycooks, 

Oakum picl Dea Iih1i.ui Doctor*) 

blacks, \\ lute smiths, Quiltt rs. 

Shopkeepers, Shipping mas; Boatmen, 

Tarn.' I : heaven, Wheelwrights, 

Blacksmiths, silk dyers, Scythe makers, 

Preaclnr-, ami scourers, Nail maker*) 

( 'arp. i ' Sail makers, 

Cabinet maker*) I >t makers, <• masons, 

I i rs, I j lors, PlaistererSi 

P rs ami glai 

i tin- preceding list, although we are aware that the 
iter part (if them are engaged in the most menial services 
and severest labors, ye1 it appears that almosl all the branches 
of business pura led by the whites, are, to a small extent, car- 
ricd on by them; shqwing that, under more favorable cir- 
cumstances, they would be competent to undertake any branch 
of active industry. But here, as in many other particulars, 
they are met In - the prejudict s with which they have to con- 
tend, and of which they complain in their memorial before 
referred to,) which render it "difficult for them to find places 
for their sons, as apprentices, to learn mechanical trades." 

What the precise value of the labor performed by the 
colored population amounts to, cannot be determined ; yet 
the following views may enable us to form some approximate 
estimate of it. If the doctrine he true, that the consumer 
pays all the expenses of the material, fabrication, and trans- 
portation of the article consumed — then must he who occupies 
a rented house pay to his landlord, not only the current ex- 
penses, including taxation, but also an interest on the amount 
of its original cost. 

1. It is seen above that the annual rent paid is ©161,000 
and it is believed that the average of taxes will be > 17 _ 1Q 
found equal to about 1 1 per cent, of the ann. rent, $ 



Leaving 



§143,290 



Being equal to the interest at 1\ per cent., (which is probably 
near that paid by the Real Estate occupied by colored persons,) 
on a capital of $1,910,533. 

2. The amount required for the support, clothing, and other 
wants (exclusive of house rent,) annually, must be very great. 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOUR. 11 

The cost of each pauper in the alms-house is ascertained to be 
$58 24. When, therefore, we consider the known conve- 
niences and comforts enjoyed by many of the colored families, 
the Committee think they cannot be charged with fixing at 
too high a rate the expenditures of the 18,76S colored per- 
sons at $65 each, which comparatively small sum would 
nevertheless produce per year $1,219,920; and supposing 

3. A profit on this sum to those who enjoyed their custom, 
of 20 per cent., it would yield $243,984 — a sum sufficient to 
maintain 244 white families, allowing each $1000 per annum. 

4. They contribute further to the general wealth by the 
profit which each employer gains upon their labor; as no man 
employs another, unless he can render that labor profitable to 
himself. 

These various items, then, taken in the aggregate, form a 
very considerable amount, and show that this class of our 
population is of much value to the community. 

They contribute annually to the public Treasury — 

In taxes and water rent on their own houses, $ 3,706 
And in rented houses, .... 17,710 

$21,416 

And to the wealth of individuals — 

In house rent, exclusive of taxes, . $143,290 

Family and individual expenditures for food, 

clothing, education, &c. &c, . 1,219,920 

$1,363,210 



Making together, §1,384.626 

The annual sum contributed by labor of the most useful 
kind towards the true wealth and strength of the community, 
and by 18,768 individuals, 254 of whom, it has been ascer- 
tained, have paid for their own freedom, or that of their 
children or relatives, the sum of $70,733; being an average 
of $278 each; and of the number of those who have come 
here from other States, 273 brought with them money 
amounting to $130,626;* and the whole are possessed of 

Real estate, worth .... $550,000 

Personal estate, .... $800,000 

$1,350,000 

* Individual cases have come to the knowledge of members of the 
Committee, which justify them in the belief that these amounts are not 
overrated. 



12 CONDITION OF THE 

• Upon the subjects of Pauperism and of Crime, in respect to 
which we hear such severe denunciations of the colored 
people, as being that class of persons which fill our alms- 
houses and jails, and are therefore considered to be an oppres- 
sive burden upon the community, your Committee will now 
make a few observations; to wit: 

( >n Pat I'Kki.-m. 

In approaching this part of our subject, we are well 
aware of the difficulties we have to encounter in obtain- 
ing a just estimate of the value of the colored people, as 
a component part of the community, when the census of 
the alms-house is made the criterion by which they are to be 
judged. But when we consider that, owing to tbc feelings 
and prejudices of the community, the colored people are 
almost altogether deprived of the opportunity of bringing up 
their children to mechanical employments, to commercial busi- 
ness, or other more lucrative occupations, whereby so many 
of our white laborers are enabled to rise above the drudgery 
in which they commence their career in life, and in turn, to 
become the patrons of their younger or less fortunate fellow 
citizens; it is not matter of surprise that a considerable num- 
I or of them should be dependant on public support 

Under these circumstances it certainly cannot be considered 
unreasonable that in a gross population of 1,673 individuals in 
our alms house, (on the 30th of Twelfth month, 1837,) there 
should be found 235 people of color, being about one-seventh 
part of the whole. 

Upon strict investigation, founded upon official documents, 
it will appear that out of 106 men and boys in the house at 
the date above mentioned, there were 

Affected with lunacy, paralysis, blindness, and idiocy, > lg 

diseases which may be referred to no act of theirs, $ 
Cripples, frost-bitten, and other diseases, the effects of ? lt 
exposure, ....... $ 

Cases of consumption and rheumatism, from exposure, 9 
111 of pleurisy, typhus fever, &.C. .... 12 

Destitute boys, ....... 5 

Destitute old men, 3 

Properly paupers, ....... 32 

Not classed, . . . . . - • 13 



FREE PEOPLE OP COLOR. 



13 



From the same source, it appears that there were at the 
same date, 129 colored females; amongst whom are 

Affected with lunacy, insanity, and old age, 
Lame, ...... 

Blind, 

Idiots, ....... 

Deaf and dumb, ..... 

Lying-in women, children, and orphans, 
Affected with sickness and debility of various 
Not classed, ...... 

May be considered as real paupers, 



kinds 



23 
2 
3 
2 
1 

24 

32 
7 

35 



129 



In regard to age, there were of the men and boys — 
Under age, ........ 

Between 21 and 50, 

50 " 75, 



Of the females — under age, 
Between 18 and 40, 



40 


" 50, 


50 


" 60, 


60 


" 70, 


70 


" 80, 


Above 100, 


. 


Not classed, 


. 



18 

57 

18 

93 

33 
59 
9 
8 
6 
2 
2 
10 



129 



In respect to the employments of the males — 
Denominated laborers, ...... 44 

Having no trade, (of course they are also laborers or 

job workers), . • • • • .29 

Engaged in various occupations or trades, . . 20 
Not classed, 13 

From the foregoing facts are deduced the previous argu- 
ment, that according to their grade in society, and their man- 
ner of occupation, it would be reasonable to expect a large 
proportion of their numbers would require pecuniary support. 

With regard to the habits of the colored portion of the resi- 



41 CONDITION OF THE 

dents of the Alms-house, the documents furnish the following 
classification, viz.: 

Of the males, sel down as temperate, (besides IS 

lunatics and 5 boys), . . . . .25 

Moderately temperate, ...... 18 

Intemperate, ....... 32 

Not classed, . . . . . . .13 

88 

Of the females, marked as temperate, . . .68 

Moderately temperate, . . . . . .25 

Intemp< >1 ....... 29 

Not cdassed, ....... 7 

I :'> 

From these statements, derived from official documents, it 
appears that 93 are classed as temperate, exclusive of 13 luna- 
tics, and 5 boys; being K) per cent, temperate. 13 are mo- 
deratelv temperate. 81 are intemperate, including those not 
classed; being nearly one-third of the whole number, and even 
including the 43 denominated moderate, making 12 1, will not 
be cpjite one-half to be set down as intemperate. Whereas, it 
is asserted by the Steward, and the fact will, we believe, be 
admitted by any of the Managers of the house, that of the 
whole number of paupers admitted, eight-tenths arc intemper- 
ate; giving to the colored population a decided superiority, 
with regard to habits, over the rest of the residents of the 
house. , And this character, your Committee think, will be 
sustained by the observation of disinterested persons in our 
streets, where it is rather uncommon to meet a colored person 
intoxicated; while on the other hand, to see a drunken white, 
is an every day occurrence. 

Upon a review of this part of the subject, therefore, the 
Committee conclude, that, taken in connection as was said be- 
fore, with their habits and manner of living, the destitution 
which poverty so often produces, particularly upon females, 
but more especially upon the poor colored woman, and which 
is augmented in a terrible ratio by the increase of her family, 
the difficulty of providing for which must be severely felt, as 
means of employment are greatly diminished, there is less 
Pauperism than might reasonably have been expected. These 
considerations are, to the feeling mind, arguments strongly in 



FREE PEOPLE OP COLOR. 15 

favor of the colored people; and if duly weighed, would satisfy- 
any unprejudiced person, that even without reference to the 
deductions of the former argument, wherein we have proved 
that they more than indemnify the community, even in a 
pecuniary point of view, for all expenses incurred in support 
of their proportion of the public paupers, — they are, in a moral 
sense, fully deserving of all the labor bestowed upon them, 
and of the place they sustain in the estimation of those who 
appear as their friends and benefactors. 

Crime. 

The Committee, with a view to obtain correct information 
on this important inquiry, appointed three of their number to 
visit the Moyamensing prison, and another committee to visit 
the Eastern Penitentiary, and through the politeness of the 
officers of those institutions they have been enabled to collect 
and present the following facts: 

Moyamensing Prison. 

From the keeper of the untried department, the following 
statement was received: — 

The whole number of prisoners admitted during the months of January, 
February, March, July, August, and September, 1837, was 2,005 
Of whom were colored males ..... 395 

Do. females, 342 

737 

Leaving whites, ..... 1268 

Of the 737 colored persons, we have been unable to obtain 
the ages, as it appears no record is kept of them till after con- 
viction, which we think ought to be done, as the age forms a 
very interesting feature in all inquiries in relation to crime 
and prison discipline. The warden of Connecticut prison says, 
" The maximum inclination to crime appears to be at the age 
of 25." 

The colored persons admitted were charged as follows: 

"With burglary and larceny, .... 188 

With assault and battery, breaches of the peace, dis- 
orderly conduct, vagrancy, &c. . . . 584 

From which it appears that three-fourths of the whole number 
were committed for trivial offences not involving serious 
guilt; and we have further ascertained, that not one out of six 
committed, are returned on the calendar for trial. The Com- 
mittee is therefore forced to conclude, that a vast number of 



16 CONDITION OF THE 

the commitments might have been prevented, if a proper de- 
gree of prudence and justice on the part of the magistrates and 
constables were manifested. 

It is, perhaps, known to most of the members of the Society, 
that individuals committed for trivial offences, may he re- 
leased upon the payment of a small sum of money to the com- 
mitting magistrate — thus holding out strong inducements to 
swell the number of commitments for trivial offences, without 
the slightest probability of their being brought to trial. The 
Grand Jury of the Court of Quarter Sessions for the county, 
for. lone term, 18 37, were bo satisfied of this fact, that they 
made it the subject of special presentment in the following 
words: 

a The Jury V70uld also State, thai they consider the conduct 
of many of the magistrates highly reprehensible in permit- 
ting very many cases of assault and battery to come before 
them; if they were to use a proper influence, they have it in 
their power to settle many of them, which would save the 
county, relieve the court of considerable time, trouble, and 
expense. The course pursued by many of the magistrates in 
Southwark and Moyamensing, is truly astonishing; it would 
seem that they are in the habit of committing individuals, 
who appear to be almost penny/ess and destitute to prison, 
on the most frivolous grounds, (merely for the sake of private 
emolument.") 

Thus it appears that of the colored commitments to the 
Moyamensing prison, amounting to 737, only about 123 were; 
ever brought to trial; leaving 014 whose incarceration might 
in all probability have been prevented. 

Again — it appears from the report of the superintendent, 
that 153 were charged with burglary and larceny, whereas, 
by the calculation of the superintendent, not more than 123 
were returned on the calender for trial; leaving 30 dis- 
charged before trial — even on criminal charges of import- 
ance. 

^Thus can your Committee readily account for the appa- 
rently, large proportion of colored persons, who " fill our pri- 
sons" — who, though, perhaps, not wholly free from indiscre- 
tions and improper conduct, ascribable in a great measure to 
their ignorance, yet ought to have been admonished and pro- 
tected, rather than sent to prison. 

The account of the state of the convict department of this 
prison, was not received, when this report was put to press. 



FREE PEOPLE OP COLOR. 17 

Eastern Penitentiary. 

It appears, from the report of the clerk of this institution, 
that for the two years ending October, 1837, there were ad- 
mitted in all 296 persons, viz.: 179 whites and 117 colored 
persons, of whom 136 were from this county, viz., 71 white 
and 65 colored; and that of the 136 cases, 100 were for lar- 
ceny and burglary; of the former, 39 cases, and of the latter 
11, were colored persons. 

Of the whole population, the colored offenders form on 
an average of 7 years, ending 1836, about 36 T 3 7 per cent. 

The ages of the prisoners are not furnished; but of 337 per- 
sons, of both descriptions, admitted from the opening of the 
penitentiary in 1829, to January 1, 1835, 45 were under 20 
years of age. 

The mortality, in the last two years, was in the proportion 
of 2-j 3 ^- per cent, for the whites, and 9-^JL for the colored. 

Of the colored portion, on the 30th October last, 21 can 
read and write; 29 can read only; 67 can neither read nor 
write. 

These are the material facts which your committee have 
been enabled to collect from this institution. A table in detail 
accompanies this report, showing the number of each crime 
committed by both classes. Upon a review of it, we notice 
that the crimes for which the larger portion of both were con- 
fined, are larceny and burglary; and while we regret to see so 
large a portion of colored persons among them, yet your 
Committee can trace them, in some. considerable degree, to 
the peculiar circumstances in which they are placed. Besides, 
the proportion appears somewhat larger, from the circum- 
stance that colored boys are probably included in the two 
prisons, as we have before noticed, while all white minor 
offenders are sent to the House of Refuge. It appears that in 
1828, when the Refuge was founded, there were 60 boys in 
the Philadelphia prison, 23 of whom were colored; making a 
ratio a little more than one-third between the white and 
colored. At the present time, there are in the Refuge 152 
juvenile white delinquents, which ought to be taken into the 
account, before the relative proportion can be fairly stated. 
A similar institution, in which colored minors may be sepa- 
rated from old and practised offenders, ought to be established, 
and there is no doubt similar good effects would flow from it, 
as have attended the institution for whites. 

While upon the subject of crime, your Committee will make 

3 



IS 



CONDITION OF THE 



a few reflections upon some of the causes which may tend to 
the commission of it among the colored population. 

1 . The prejudices and customs of society exclude them from 
the enjoyment of many of the advantages which the whites 
possess for moral and intellectual improvement, and their 
necessities deprive them, ill a great measure, of the time 
necessary to the acquisition of knowledge. They are, there- 
fore, kept in a state of ignorance; and although suitable pro- 
vision ha- been made for the education of their children, vet 
many cannot avail themselves of it, as their lahor must he 
added to that of the parents for their support 
^ That ignorance is a very fruitful source of crime, has been 
very fully demonstrated, by the records of various prisons 
throughout the United States. We shall make extracts from 
a very Into resting aeries of communications, published (in the 
" Register of Pennsylvania,") by Dr. Leiber and others. He 
remarks, as one of his conclusions, from the facts sent him, 
"that school education is, with most convicts, very deficient, 
or entirely wanting. We will furnish some of the statements 
themselves. The first is from S. R. Wood, of our own peni- 
tentiary. 

Of 219, 12 can neither read nor write. 
50 can read, but not write. 
At Sing Sing, of 842, 170 cannot read or write. 

■J I have never been at school. 
85 can read, and not write. 

Auburn, of 670, 180 had no education. 

367 very poor do. 

204 common do. 

8 academical do. 

3 collegiate do. 

The warden of the Connecticut state prison estimates that 
46 in 100 convicts can read and write. 
39 in 100 can read only. 
39 in 1(10 can neither read nor write. 

2. "Intemperance, very often the consequence of loose 
education, is a most appalling source of crime." In our own 
penitentiary, 

Of 337 convicts, only 80 are set down as sober. 
10 are uncertain. 
247 drunkards, or occasionally intemperate. 

337 

The warden of Sing Sing estimates that, " of 842 convicts, 
485 have been habitual drunkards; about one-third of that 
number actually committed their crimes when intoxicated" 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 19 

Auburn State Prison, 503 intemperate. 

159 temperate drinkers. 
8 total abstinents. 

Whole number of convicts, 670, and of these, 402 committed their 

crimes under the influence of liquor, 
and 257 had intemperate parents. 

The same opinions are confirmed by other reports. 

3. The neglect to learn a regular trade, or if apprenticed, 
abandoning it before the time lawfully expires, is considered 
as another source of crime. In our own penitentiary, 

Of 219, only 30 were regularly bound and served out their time. 
38 were apprenticed, but ran away. 
State Prison, Connecticut, 72 in 100 never learned a trade. 

24 in 100 began to learn, but did not follow it. 
4 in 100 have followed regular trades. 

- 4. Early loss of parents is also another source of crime 
mentioned and confirmed by the reports. 

The preceding, the Committee deem sufficient on the sub- 
ject, as they form the prominent causes, some, or all of which 
may operate on the colored population, in common with the 
whites. The next inquiry naturally arises, what can or ought 
to be done to remove, or at least to remedy the effects of 
these causes? The Committee will suggest such as occur to 
them. As ignorance is a prominent cause, the education and 
instruction of the rising generation should be faithfully at- 
tended to. The time was, when a colored person was sup- 
posed to have no capacity for receiving instruction in the most 
elementary branches of education; but those days have, hap- 
pily, passed away, and we have numerous living instances 
amongst us, in preachers of collegiate education; of teachers, 
well qualified; and scholars iruevery branch of academic learn- 
ing. And the Committee are happy to observe, by the agents' 
report, that the parents of the colored children are disposed to 
discharge their duty by sending them to school. They report 
1724 as attending common schools, and 1987 attending Sun- 
day schools; but they also report 1301 who do not attend 
common schools, and 974 who do not attend Sabbath schools; 
whether too young, or too much occupied by the necessities 
of the parents, is an interesting inquiry. 

The next step is to take measures to have all children of 
suitable ages apprenticed to learn some trade. We have al- 
ready noticed the complaint made by the colored persons, that 
they experience great difficulty in finding masters sufficiently 
free from prejudice to receive their sons as apprentices. In 



20 CONDITION OF THE FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 

this important measure, probably the Society could essentially 
aid, by inducing white masters to receive apprentices. Girls 
should, likewise, cither learn trades, or be apprenticed at ser- 
vice, in conscientious white families. 

The next great evil to be removed is Intemperance. From 
wh.it we have already said with regard to the habits of the 
colored population, we shall not be considered as having an 
unfavorable opinion of them in this respect. It is a fact, how- 
ever, that this evil exists among them in a much larger degree 
than it ought. Every method and argument should be em- 
ployed to add to the number of the Temperance Societies al- 
ready established, and induee members to join them, and if 
possible break up those infamous sinks of iniquity, the " grog- 
shops," which so much abound in the southern districts of the 
city. 

Above all, the moral and religious instruction of the rising 
generation, and of those more advanced in life, should be at- 
tended to by the erection of necessary meeting houses and the 
institution of Sabbath-schools. The Committee are gratified 
to state an increasing desire among the colored population on 
this subject, as evinced by the numerous places of worship 
which they have already erected, and which consist at pre- 
sent of — Methodist, — Presbyterian, — Episcopalian, — 
Baptist, making together — ; as also in the institution of — 
Bible Societies, — Tract Societies, — Temperance Societies, 
— Female Literary Institutions, and — Libraries. 

The Committee will close this part of their report by 
making one other suggestion, which may, perhaps, deserve 
the consideration of the Society; and that is, how far the con- 
gregated residence of the colored population in one entire 
portion of the city, may injuriously affect their interests. We 
all know the powerful influence of association, whether for 
good or for evil. Does it not tend to strengthen the influence 
of bad example, especially upon the young — embolden vice, 
and continue prejudices against them which might be re- 
moved, by scattering themselves more among the neighbor- 
hoods of the whites, from whom they would gradually derive 
important hints on the science of living; and even place them- 
selves in the way of being employed by them, in various 
modes which do not at present occur ? We are aware that 
many difficulties may at hYst present themselves; but may 
they not be gradually removed ? 

All which is respectful lv submitted. 

JOSEPH PARRISH, M. D., Chairman. 
Edward Needles, Secretary of the Committee. 



SECOND REPORT 

OF THE 

COMMITTEE TO VISIT THE COLORED PEOPLE, &c. &c. 
TO THE SOCIETY. Read Fourth month 4th, 1838. 



In their former Report, your Committee presented a body 
of statistical information, tending to develope the present con- 
dition of the colored community as it relates to numbers, the 
value of real and personal property, amount of taxes paid 
toward the support of their poor, &c, together with facts and 
observations on the subjects of pauperism and crime. As so 
many charges have been made against this injured people on 
the latter head, your Committee will very briefly recapitulate 
several views adopted in their former Report. They think 
they have shown, from accurate data, that in respect to pau- 
perism, the general impression which has prevailed is entirely 
erroneous. As it relates to crime, they believe unjust im- 
pressions also prevail. In estimating the moral condition of 
a mass of individuals, it will not be denied that the state of 
education amongst them, the character of their employments, 
and the condition from which they have sprung, should be 
taken into the account. Considering, therefore, that the great- 
body of this people are of the laboring class, that they have 
been brought up in poverty and ignorance, that many of them 
have been held as slaves, or, in other words, as " chattels per- 
sonal to all intents and purposes whatsoever," thus being 
debarred from the exercise of their moral and intellectual 
faculties, and held in perfect subordination to the despotic 
control of a fellow creature, it is not surprising that many of 
them should indulge in vicious propensities, and become the 
subjects of criminal prosecution; a state of things which is 
rather to be referred to the condition in which they have been 
placed, than to any inherent defect in themselves. And it is 
on this account, that those who profess to be the friends of this 
afflicted and neglected part of the human family, should be 
aroused to increased exertions on their behalf, and to a more 

4 



22 CONDITION 

serious inquiry how far they are acquitting themselves in 
all truth and sincerity, in the position ot' abolitionists, a term 
which comprises, in relation to this people, the performance of 
:ill those acts of Christian dharitj which make up the cha 

r of a philanthropist 
Since the lasl meeting of the Society, vpur Committee have 
been anxiously engaged in watching over the rights and in- 
terest! ir colored brethren, more particularly with 

ence to the movements of the late Convention assembled 
in this city for revising the Constitution of Pennsylvania. 

]• ia not necessary to embody in this Report the details oi 
the exciting discussions which arose in the Convention, on 
the motion for the introduction of the word "white" in the 
article of the Constitution relating to the right of suffrage; 
and on a proposed amendment to secure to fugitives from 
labor the right of jury trial; these were witnessed by man) 
members of the Society, and their result is known to all. 

J i Committee need only state, that they were active in 
adopting such measures a>- were within their power to avert 

a decision of these questions, injurious to the interest of our 
colored population, and so derogatory to the character of our 
state. A number of the copies of our first Report were dis- 
tributed amongsl the members of the Convention, and indivi- 
duals of the Committee were vigilant in furnishing to the 
friends of human rights, in the Convention, such information 
us might have a favorable bearing on the questions at issue. 
And although prejudice and error prevailed, yet your Com- 
mittee trust that their labors were nol altogether in vain. And 
as strongly corroborative of the estimate we have placed upon 
the general good character of the colored people, and confirm* 
atory of the sentiments advanced in our former Report, when 
treating upon the subject of crime, we cannot refrain from 
introducing an extract from some remarks published in the 
Colonization Herald, as having been made in the Senate of 
Pennsylvania, on the resolution relative to the right of peti- 
tion, by Jesse R. Burden, the decided and uniform opposer 
of the course of abolitionists, and denunciator of their measures. 
He proceeds to ask the question, 

"|V\ hat has resulted from the agitation of the question of slavery]" 

To which lie answers: 

m Before the cause was taken up with so much zeal, the colored people in 
Pennsylvania were gradually elevating their standard of character. They 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 23 

had among them men who merited and received the regard and respect of the 
community. Among these we would name Jajm3S_Forten,of Philadelphia. 
This man had served with honor in the ievolutionTln all the relations 
of life his reputation has been spotless. Such men had exercised an 
immense and useful influence on the colored population. With the 
exception of two or three counties in the state, colored men were 
permitted, without question, to give their suffrages for state and town 
officers. Their deportment was gradually and silently overcoming the 
prejudices against them; a few more years and the privilege of voting 
would have been tacitly conceded to them. He spoke of their deport- 
ment, because he conceived that on this point injustice had been done to 
the race, by friends and foes. He said that although he had never served 
in an office of profit, he had served in his county in nearly all those 
which are called offices of honor ; that as inspector of the prison, and 
guardian of the poor, he had possessed opportunities of knowing the 
condition of the colored population. From the very few who asked 
pauper relief, he judged they were provident and industrious. In the 
prisons they were numerous, their offences seldom of a high grade, gene- 
rally those incident to poverty. The number of commitments was in a 
great measure to be accounted for from prejudice against their color, and 
from want of friends. Our Pennsylvania system of " squires" looks less 
to the satisfaction of justice, than to the satisfaction of the justice's 
pocket — obedience to the laws is starvation to the magistrate — his interest 
is made to consist in having the laws broken, or in committing men under 
color of law. He will discharge a white man from prison because a few 
dollars can be raised among his friends; the colored man, for want of 
funds, remains in prison until term time. 

He said he had never known an instance of a colored person using dis- 
respectful language to a white man, when spoken to in the manner which 
a gentleman ought to speak. He believed that the conduct of the colored 
people had been as good as any person had a right to expect, considering 
the circumstances under which they were placed." 

Although such are the sentiments of many of the intelligent 
amongst us, yet such is the false estimate which still prevails 
amongst the mass of our citizens, as to the value of the. colored 
people as a component part of the community, and which was 
particularly manifest in the debates of the Convention, that we 
are renewedly convinced of the utility of the plan of laying be- 
fore thepublic statistical information as to their actual condition. 
We have, therefore, steadily pursued our investigations; the 
result of our labors is the acquisition of a body of additional 
facts, which we will now proceed to exhibit to the Society. 
Our inquiries have been directed to the beneficial societies 
amongst the colored people, for mutual assistance in times of 
sickness, &c. ; to their schools and literary societies; the state 
of morals amongst them; the number of their houses of wor- 
ship; of members constituting their respective congregations, 
and the religious sects to which they severally belong; and, 



24 condition OF THE 

lastly, the mortality among them in comparison with the 
\\ bite population. 

These important items of information, we shall treat under 
their appropriate heads, Before proceeding to which, how- 
ever, we may state that, after the decision of the Convention 
adverse to the exercise of the elective franchise by the colored 
people, the Committee being sensible of the depth of their 
afflictions, an address was prepared, expressive of our sym- 
pathy with them on this occasion, and extending such coun- 
sel to them as the circumstances seemed to require. Which 
M is read in all their churches and extensively circulated 
amongst them, and from the manner in which it was received 
we are satisfied that it lias been of signal service, in calming 
the tumult of feeling which so strongly existed amongst 
them. 

l. Beneficial Societies. 

These institutions, as their name imports, are established for 
the purpose of mutual aid and assistance in times of sickness 
and distress, and have a powerful influence in preventing pau- 
perism and crime, and in fostering those feelings of mutual 
regard and sympathy, so essential to the harmony and well 
being of societv. As will be seen by the subjoined tabular 
statement, these societies are very numerous amongst the 
colored people, and the manner in which they are conducted 
reflects great credit upon their supporters. 

The following preamble to one of these institutions, sup- 
ported by females, exhibits, in a few expressive words, the 
chief objects of all of them : 

" VVk, the subscribers, duly reflecting on the various vicissitudes of 
life to which the female part of the community are continually exposed, 
and stimulated by ihe desire of improving our condition, do conclude that 
the most efficient method of securing ourselves from the extreme exigen- 
cies to which we are liable to be reduced, is by uniting ourselves in a 
body for the purpose of raising a fund for the relief of its members. With 
this view we have formed ourselves into a Society, that by our mutual 
endeavors, we may relieve the occasional distress of each other, and 
jointly agree to the following terms as the articles of our Constitution." 

The fund appropriated for the relief of distressed members, 
is raised by a monthly contribution from each of them, from 
twelve and a half to twenty five cents, or more. The aid is 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 25 

furnished through a committee, who investigate the condition 
of the applicant, and act accordingly. 

If a member dies, he or she is buried in a becoming man- 
ner, at the expense of the society. If the widow of a deceased 
member be sick, or in want, and if she be worthy, the aid of 
the Society is extended to her so long as she remains a widow 
and is in distress; and if the widow marry, it becomes a duty 
of the Society to exercise a care over the children, and if thev 
need assistance, to furnish it. If a member has been guilty 
of immoral conduct, he or she may be expelled, provided that 
the accused party have a hearing and trial before the Society. 
If the sickness of a member arises from immoral or vicious 
conduct, he or she is debarred from the benefits of the cha- 
ritable fund. The tendency of such organizations in promot- 
ing industry, providence, and charitable dispositions, and in 
affording a check to the indulgence of vicious propensities, 
is too obvious to need illustration; and the small number of 
paupers in our alms-house, as exhibited in the former Report, 
attests their importance in this respect. And we have been in- 
formed on good authority, that scarcely an instance of con- 
viction upon a criminal charge of a member of one of these 
numerous societies, has occurred for a period of many years. 
These institutions are generally incorporated, and some of 
them are possessed of a considerable amount of money, as the 
annexed table will exhibit. 






■ "M>i i H'N "i i ii i. 



irl \I. St* 1ETIES. 



r — 



3 - 



1. M lie < i .* r r i — n \-- iciation. 

2. Hamane Mi chaniea 1 Society. 

,S - fSi i 

i. Citizen Song of Philadelphia. 1830 

i • male Macedonian Society. 1 39 1 

. Daogh. ofTillghma 
7. Dorcae S 1 830 

- Da i ten m. 

1 Rieiog Pereererance Free Sona of 
Thomson. 
i Brotherly Union. 
li.l Foiled Brethren. 
12. Benev. Daughters of Jos. M. Corr. 
'.nm Daughters of Walter Proctor, 
14. United Daughters of Allen. 
16, Beneficial Daoghtera of M. Brown. 
1 6. Siaterly Union. 
I?. l'» male Harrison Society. 
I-. Benevolent Daughters of Atlee. 
19. Coacbn volent Society, 

90, African Porter 1 ! Benevolent Society. 

21. Friendly Sons of Zion. 

22. Union Sons of Industry. 

93. Male Harrison Benevolent Society, 

94. Clarkson Society. 

25. United Sons of Allen. 

26. Benevolent Daughters of Union. 

27. United Daughters of Wilherforce. 
98. 1'riendly Daughters of Nehemiah. 

■ male Simeon. 

30. Daughters of St. Paul. 

31. United Daughters of Hester. 

32. Female Benezet. 

33. Female Beneficlhl Harmony. 

34. Union Sons of Bethel and Union Ch. 

35. United Daughters of Bethlehem, ) 

City and County of Philada. 3 

36. Female Baptist Assistance Socie- \ 

ty of Pennsylvania. 3 

• male African Benev. Society. 
38, Daughters of Isaiah, City and ") 
County of Philadelphia. 3 

Carried over. | 



1836 

1823 

I - : 5 
I 833 



1834 

1825 
1898 



1898 

in:::, 

1831 



1832 

1835 

1-2 1 
1827 
1831 



17 
65 
18 

230 
36 

72 

31 

240 

93 1 

it: 

l.-,u 
198 
139 

66 
134 

85 
100 

60 
119 

68 

55 

•Ml 
1(13 
100 

99 
130 

re 

135 

83 
63 
34 

1 25 

59 
54 
54 



|130 

1 95 
103 

!64 

108 

350 
550 
840 

111 
200 
132 

liiu 
18 

900 
135 
58 
156 
309 
150 
I7n 
257 
155 
350 
164 

223 
123 

252 

80 
96 

7.'. 



: : 

-11 



1131 

100 



I 10 

549 

95 

124 

55] 
100 
150 
200 

150 

35 
300 
172 

297 
1: i 
192 
II 
97 
370 
100 
154 
195 
133 
130 
II I 
■:■::< 
171 
79 

330 

113 

96 
86 






300 



100 



150 
900 

500 
390 

100 
150 



• j($70O of this lumfonhare of Hat). 



|3662| 9 19" 7561| 4470 
' For distributing garment* to sick and infirm. 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR.. 



27 



Beneficial Societies. 



Z3 



Brought over, 

39. Methodist Assistant. 

40. Female Thomas Shipley Society. 

41. Female Turpin Society. 

42. Daughters of St. Thomas. 

43. Dau^iters of Absalom.* / 

44. AfriWn Female Bond Benevolent") 

Society of Bethel Church. 5 

45. Daughters of Jeremiah. 

46. Hopeful Daughters of C. Carr. 

47. United Daughters of St. Mark. 

48. Daughters of Aaron. 

49. United Sisters' Society. 

50. Whitesonian Society. 

51. Young Mens' Rising Beneficial. 

52. Daughters of Garrison. 

53. Fire Side Circle. 

54. Daughters of Hosea. 

55. Angola Beneficial Association. 

56. Benjamin Lundy Society. 

57. United Sons of Johnson. 

58. Friendly Society. 

59. United Daughters of Israel. 

60. Penn Benevolent Society. 

61. Female Granville Society. 

62. Benezet Society. 

63. Male African Benevolent Society. 

64. Sons of Africa. 

65. Daughters of Zion. 

66. Daughters of Salem. 

67. United Daughters of St. James. 

68. African Female Union. * 

69. Rush Benevolent Society. 

70. African Ark Benevolent Society. 

71. Female Hand in Hand. 

72. Wilberforce Association. 

73. First Perseverance. 

74. Benevolent Daughters. 

75. Daughters of Tapsico. 

76. Angolian Society. 

77. Tyson Benevolent. 

78. Daughters of Pennsylvania. 

79. Daughters of Johnson. 

80. Daughters of Clayton Durham. 

Total. 



1836 
1833 

1824 



366 
50 
240 

147 

72 
85 



1827 
1821 



1830 

1818 

1833 

1833 

183 

1824 

1808 

1830 

1836 

1795 

1827 

1833 

1819 
1810 

1827 

1832 
1830 
1815 
1833 
1833 
1818 
1830 
1796 
1837 
1808 
1824 
1830 
L834 
1837 



§9198 

75 

700 

654 

52 

197 



125 
70 
137 
100 
100 
80 
38 
90 
50 
110 
40 
45 
213 
66 
120 
73 
100 
103 
50 
38 
80 
40 
48 
50 
60 
65 
100 
100 
198 
200 
163 
40 
100 
40 
60 
100 



§7561 S4470 

30 
254 
406 

36 
122 



180 
100 

80 
150 
150 
130 

780 
150 
100 
300 
530 
68 
400 
293 
182 

400 
95 

120 
50 



2 

150 

263 

1089 

780 

433 

120 

250 

100 

90 

80 



225 

100 
100 

70 
175 



400 
120 

450 
550 
79 
200 
216 
1 

400 
95 
70 
40 

116 



260 
200 
200 
700 

71 
100 
270 
150 
226 



350 
70 



50 

200 



400 
120 
400 

450 
200 



220 

120 
200 
100 
176 
178 
108 
150 
500 
700 
356 
120 
250 
101 
34 



|7448[18,851 1 14,172 1 10,023 



forty-five to eighty year- of age. 



CONDITION OF THK 

It may, perhaps, be stated that in some instances the same 
individual belongs to two, or even more, societies. The 
number of members, as exhibited by the summary of the 
whole, is, at this time, 7,448, and their contributions during; 
the past year amounted to the aggregate sum of SlS,851; of 
which $14,179 was expended during the same time for the re- 
lief of its members; the surplus being added to the funds 
previously accumulated, and constituting a resource in case of 
future deficiency, the necessitj of which is manifest from 
an inspection of the table, where it will be seen that their ex- 
penditures sometimes exceed the amount of the contributions. 

The names of twenty other societies are reportcdY which 
are known to he organized, but we have not been able to pro- 
cure authentic information of their annual receipts and expen- 
ditures, we can therefore only notice the fact of their existence. 

VHOOLS AND LlTli: \i:V INSTITUTIONS. 

Although, as has been stated in the preliminary observa- 
tions to this Report, many of the present generation of adult 
colored people have been brought up without a knowledge of 
the benefits to be derived from education, yet we are not to 
be understood as imputing to them any greater degree of 
indifference in regard to this highly important subject, than 
is usually exhibited by those of a corresponding class of 
society amongst the whites. According to the census taken 
by our agents, there were 3,652 families in the city and dis- 
tricts, comprising 3,025 children of suitable age to attend 
school, agreeably to the following statement, to wit: 
Scheolt. .ittetuL Do not attend. 

Common, 1,784, 1,301, 

Sabbath, 1,987, 971. 

By recent inquiry we have been highly gratified to find 
that, besides the large schools, established by the controllers 
of public schools, there are other institutions for the gratuitous 
instruction of colored children, in some of which are taught 
the higher branches of education. There are also a number 
of private schools amongst them, some of which are conducted 
in a manner worthy of respectful notice, and afford en- 
couraging proof of an anxiety on the part of our colored 
people to secure to their children those advantages which 
many parents can only appreciate by observing upon others 
the superiority of a cultivated intellect, when viewed in con- 
trast with the ignorance and imbecility of the untutored mind. 

We subjoin a tabular statement of the schools for the 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 



29 



instruction of colored children, which will exhibit in a 
compendious view the proportion of those who are entered 
for school, to the number who actually attend; this great 
disparity has long been a source of regret to their friends, and 
much labor has been bestowed upon them, in order to effect 
an improvement, which we confidently believe has been 
attended with some degree of success. But although it is ad- 
mitted that too much neglect is still attributable to the parents 
in respect to sending their children to school, we believe it is 
a fault which all who are conversant with public schools, will 
acknowledge to be equally chargeable to indigent persons, 
whetheFwhite or colored. 



Branches Taught 



FREE SCHOOLS. 



j«f|s| 



25 o Z a o .= v 



»i S b 



-C_ 



p « 



Northern Liberties Public School, 
Lombard Street do., boys, 
Do. do., girls, 

Locust Street Infant School, 
Adelphi, do., 

Tidmarsh, do., 

Adelphi, boys, 

Bray's, 

Shelter for Colored Orphans, 
Total, 



220 

200 

263 

120 

90 

82 

88 

12 

41 



84 
150 
160 
80 
63 
65 
60 
10 
41 



64 

so 

193 
80 
63 
65 
1') 
12 
11 



37 
1 20 

70 



40 



15 

40 
100 



65 



60 
40 



28 



11 
11 

30 



22 



22 

25 



1116|713|613|267| 220 | 128 | 74 | 51 



THE FOLLOWING ARE PART FREE AND PART PAY. 



Willing's Alley, boys, 

Do., girls, 

Clarkson, do., 

Total, 



72 


45 


24i 48 


44 


38 




82 


40 


12 








72 


40 


| 65 


64 


54 


3 



Mount Zion Church, Is. Corbet, 
Elizabeth Street, Abigail Brown, 
Clarkson H. Sch., boys, G.Luther 
Total, 



17 


14 


7 


35 


30 


20 


50 


45 





6 
10 
50 



David Ware, 
Solomon Clarkson, 
Susan Powell, 
Emeline Brown, 
Ann Eliza Carey, 
M. and S. Gordon, 
Sarah M. Douglass, 
Eliza Matthew, 
Eliza Ann Rolley, 
Eliza West, 



226|125| 36)113, 108 | 92 | 3 | 1 



PAY SCHOOLS, UNDER CARE OF WHITE TEACHERS. 



4 






10 


10 




50 


45 


45 



30 



102| 89| 27| 66| 64 | 55 | 45 |30 



PAY SCHOOLS, TAUGHT BY COLORED TEACHERS. 



k 



45 


37 


20 


20 


15 


9 


2 


40 


40 


10 


30 


30 


12 




8 


8 


8 


8 








22 


22 


14 


8 


1 






30 


25 


23 


7 


3 


3 


5 


30 


25 


10 


20 


20 


10 


10 


43 


38 


4 


40 


28 


37 


21 


33 


33 


8 


25 








12 


12 


1 


11 


8 


8 




25 


20 


17 


8 


1 







Total, 



288|260|U5|177| 106 | 79 | 38 ] 



CONDITION ok Tilt 

The foreg g list was obtained from the teachers of the 
different schools; and while it exhibits a brief view of the 
of the schools, both public and private, it also affords 
us I try proof bf the accuracy of our agents' report, 

by the remarkably near coincidence of the numbers returned 
by them as entered for school, with the cumbers bere ascer- 
tained to tally on the books of the different schools. 
By the former list there appears to be 1,724 at common 
schools; the latter 1,732, a difference so small as to require no 

particular notice, only from the fact that, although derived 

from distinct sources, the amounts agree so nesrly. 

Besides the number of private schools amongst thc*colored 

people, as stated in the concluding part of the foregoing table, 

they have a number of societies formed for the purpose of 

mutual improvement, and for exciting in each other a laudable 

illation in respect to literals and intellectual 

pursuits. The advantages which have resulted from the 
stimulus afforded by such associations, : ,ie exemplified in the 
attainments of numerous individuals whom we could name, 
were it or expedient to particularise. 

Wc have obtained partial returns of those societies, and, 
not to swell our Report, submit the names of the following, 
to wit : 

• \'- Membert. 

Philadelphia Library Company, 150 
Rush Lib. and Debating Society, II 
Minerva Literary Society, 20 

Phila. Lit Female Association, 90 
Edg worth Society, 30 

3. Ok the Stats ok Morals and Condition of the 

< HIKCHKs. 

These subjects so naturally blend with each other, that we 
are not disposed to attempt to separate them, for although a 
partial appearance of morality may sometimes be preserved, 
independent of religion, yet all agree that religion cannot 
possibly exist without morality. 

It is a fact, too true to be evaded, that a portion of the co- 
lored people here, are in a low and degraded condition; but 
we think, without attempting a comparison, which might 
appear extremely invidious, we shall be able to show con- 
clusively, by the reports we have received of the state of the 



1 / 


b. Object*. 


600 


.Mutual Improv 


132 


do. 


50 


do. 




do. 




do. 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 



31 



colored churches, that the ratio of that unfortunate class, to 
the whole number of the colored inhabitants of the city and 
liberties, is much smaller than is generally supposed. 

Agreeably to the very interesting statistics, published in 
Hazard's Register of Pennsylvania, vol. viii., page 70, 
the whole white population of the city and districts, at the 
taking of the census for 1830, was 173,345. The number 
under 20 years of age is stated thus: 



Under 5 years, 


25,355 


from 5 to 10, 


21,401 


" 10 to 15, 


19,064 


« 15 to 20, 


21,652 



Making the minor portion equal to 87,472 
The colored population, by the same documents, is estimated 
at that time as amounting to 15,595. 

By the return of our agents, and the estimate founded thereon, as stated 

in our first Report, the number of colored people in the city and districts 

in 1837, was 18,768 

Which would give by the rule of proportion, with the above stated ") 9 4 »,q 

numbers under 20 years, viz. : as 173,345 : 87,472 : : 18,768: 5 ' 

9,298 
From which deduct the number of communicants as reported ~) 3 995 
by the pastors, (see next page,) 5 

Leaves 5,303 
as the number of adults who may be supposed to be without 
the pale of church control. But considering the powerful 
moral influence which a body composed of 3,995 religious 
church members must have over their non-professing friends 
and acquaintance in their immediate vicinity, we apprehend 
it is within the bounds of probability to suppose that, of the 
5,303 alluded to, a large number may be so far under the re- 
straints of Christian feelings as to be worthy of being classed 
amongst the sober and moral part of the community; and we 
are confirmed in the truth of this theory by the opinion of 
several clerical and other religious persons who have been 
consulted on the occasion; leaving but a small proportion of 
the entire population as the number which is to include the 
immoral and vicious, and for whose faults such a mass of 
opprobrious slander has been so lavishly bestowed upon the 
whole people. 

It is probable we may again advert to this subject, when we 



32 



Ci»*mTION OF T1IK 



come to treat of the mortality amongst the colored people. 
We will now present the society with a hrief notice of the 
state of their churches, number of actual members, value of 
the property, &c, as communicated from the records by the 
pastors of the different congregations, in reply to our inquiries 
addressed to them with special reference to these subjects, 
viz.: 



NiiihIji r 
DENOMIN A 1 ION. of 

< liurcht , 


i 

NiimiIk r "I 
<-..iii n.iii. i- * imu»l 

1 


\nl r 

propei i>. 


\ mount «>f 

i ii i ii iii- 

liiaiicc. 


K|>iscopalian. 

Lutheran. 

Methodist. 

Presbyterian. 
Baptist. 


1 
1 

8 
9 
•1 


100 
10 

335 

700 


rl 

L90 
2100 
[600 
1300 


136,000 

3,000 

50,800 

20,000 

1,900 


» 

$1000 
5150 
1000 


Total, 


if, 


3995 I 6020 


114,000 | 7150 



The value of property, as here stated, is the same as that 
given us b\ the pastors of the different congregations. It may be 
thought by some to be rated too high, but on investigating 
the subject through the medium of a sub-committee, one of 
whom w;is a judicious property broker, a slighl difference 
only was discovered, their report being that the aggregate 
value of the property may safely be set down at 5100,000 
over and shove the debts due thereon. 

Besides the above, it will he proper to state, that in Ha- 
milton village, in the immediate vicinity of the city, there are 
two congregations, one of Baptists, with 4G communicants, 
the other Methodists, with 50. The property is clear, and 
supposed, at a moderate estimate, worth J51000. 

4. Of Mortality. 

In relation to this important subject, the inquiries of the 
Committee were naturally directed to the office of the Board 
of Health, as the appropriate focus of intelligence of the de- 
scription required. And it being known to some of the 
members, that our valuable fellow citizen, Dr. G. Emerson, 
was not only very conversant with the records of that office, 
but that, in his essay on the medical statistics of Philadelphia, 
he had treated upon the mortality amongst the colored peo- 
ple, a note was addressed to him by one of the Committee, 
requesting to be furnished with such information upon the 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 33 

subject as might be in his possession. In reply to which a 
letter was received, containing much interesting matter, and 
as he has very kindly given permission to make such disposi- 
tion of it as may appear most expedient, we therefore 
submit it to the Society as part of this report. 

It will be perceived that in this letter Dr. Emerson esti- 
mates the number of colored persons, both in 1820 and in 
1S30, at different sums from those stated by the Committee 
in their first Report. This difference arises mainly, as 
suggested by him, from his estimate being founded on the 
whole district making report of deaths to the Board of Health, 
and those of the Committee not including a small part of 
that district which lies beyond the built portions of the city 
and the adjoining corporations. 

In relation to the entire number of the colored population 
in 1837, the difference between the sums stated by the Com- 
mittee and by Dr. Emerson, is of importance. The Committee 
find on a careful examination of the census of 1820 and that of 
1830, and of the increase between those periods, that through 
some inadvertence their estimate of its ratio is erroneous, and 
that instead of 37 it should be stated at about 30 per centum. 
This estimate being the basis of the computed increase from 
1830 up to 1S3S, the whole number given by the Committee 
for that time would consequently be too great. This altera- 
tion in the ratio of increase will reduce the whole number of 
the colored population to about the sum stated by Doctor 
Emerson. 

Although the several calculations in the first part of this 
Report, founded upon the estimated number of the colored 
population in 1837, will necessarily be in some degree 
changed by the alteration of their computed number, yet no 
difference will be produced in the results, of material import- 
ance to the present investigation. 

Philadelphia, March 12th, 1838. 
Dear Sir: — 

The statistical information which you have requested of 
me, relative to the colored population of Philadelphia, shall 
be freely given, so far, at least, as my ability and means of 
obtaining correct data will permit. 

In regard to the increase of this portion of our population, 
I am sorry to inform you, tha1 r one of its sources, namely, that 



I CONDITION 09 Til) 

from births, cannot be correctly estimated, no separate registry 
of these being kept. 

I bare, as you are perhaps aware, published two sets of ob- 
.itions upon the increase and mortality of the inhabitanti 
of Philadelphia. In these I have made separate computations 
for the colored population, the increase of which I have 
estimated from data furnished by the enumerations made by 
order of the general government, in the years 1820 and '30. 

Ii is stated by your Committee, charged with investigating 
the subject, that, according to the census of L8£0, there wen-, 
within the city and liberties of Philadelphia 10,746 colored 
prisons Thil amount differs from that which I have for- 
merly given, as the colored population of the winds and dis- 
tricts. In my enumeration I have perhaps included the 
inhabitants of some districts adjoining the city, which have 
been omitted by the Committee My objeel was to include. 
as nearly as possible, the inhabitants of every part making 
returns of the dead to our Health Office. 

The results of my calculations for, and since, 1830, also 
differ somewhat from those furnished by your Committee, as 
I estimate the entire colored population of the city and adjoin- 
ing districts to amount, in 1837, to 17,511, being 1270 per- 
sons less than the number stated by the Committee. 

In calculating the proportion of the mortality to the popula- 
tion, it is of the utmost importance to have the most exact data 
on which to found the estimates. and it is on this account that I 
have devoted much attention to this division of the subject. 

Reckoning the colored inhabitants in 1S37 at 17,511, the 
mortality, after deducting 6 per cent, for still-born, is about 
1 in 33 annually. Supposing the amount of population as 
computed by the Committee, the proportional mortality would 
be about 1 in 35. 

In the year 1836, the deaths were 1 in 24 of the colored 
population; or,.according to the rate of increase adopted by 
the Committee, about 1 in 26. 

This result, when compared with those derived from cal- 
culations made by me, and embracing the several years 
between 1S20 and '30, shows a remarkable diminution in the 
mortality of the colored population. In some years, — those 
of 1821, '23, and '24, for instance, — the deaths were about 1 
in 17. The smallest proportion was 1 in 27, and the average 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOH. 35 

of the 10 years, 1 in 21.7. During the same period, the 
average mortality among the whites, rich and poor, was 1 
in 42.3. 

It must be observed that the mortality of the entire popu- 
lation of our city and liberties, has been unusually small for 
the last two years. In 1836, it fell short of the preceding 
year 309; and in 1837, the whole mortality was 141 below 
that of 1836, and, consequently, 550 below that of 1835. 
Estimating the increase of the white population from the ratio 
which subsisted between the years 1S20 and 1S30, namely, 
31 per cent., the proportion of deaths in 1S37 would be 
(after deducting the still-born) only about 1 in 54 of all con- 
ditions; which is strongly contrasted with that of the colored 
population for the same year, namely, 1 in 33 or 35. 

This high rate of mortality among the colored population, 
compared to that subsisting among the whites, is calculated 
to attract the attention of those not much given to the con- 
templation of human suffering. What, then, must be the 
impression made by its consideration upon the mind of the 
active philanthropist? It must, however, be understood, that 
this comparative exemption from death enjoyed by the white 
population, is not to be considered as common to all ranks, 
since there is reason to believe the deaths among the poorest 
whites fall little short of the proportion in the colored inha- 
bitants. All measures, therefore, which may be contemplated 
for the amelioration of one class of a suffering community, 
must be defective in their philanthropic aim, if confined only 
to one portion of such community. 

The particular diseases which prove most destructive to 
the colored population, are not reported separately in our 
Bill of Mortality, and can only be ascertained correctly by a 
laborious examination of the individual certificates furnished 
the Health Office. Consumption and acute diseases of the 
chest, are doubtless the most fruitful ordinary sources of death, 
at least, among adults. In almost every epidemic visitation, 
it is the colored and poorest portion of the white population, 
which bear the chief brunt of suffering and mortality. 

In the publication made by me relative to the medical 
statistics of Philadelphia,* I have endeavored to point out 
some of the most prominent causes of the increased mortality 

* See American Journal of the Medical Sciences, for 18<27 and 1831. 



NDITIOH Of Tllf: 

among the poorer classes, and now take the liberty of referring 
you to the following observations then presented to the public : 

" In ■ former number of this journal we took some pains to show that 
the influence of the sickly air was expended upon that comparatively 
limited portion of the population linns in the environs and outskirts of 
the town. With these, fever, in some of its forms, was almost universal, 
whilst in the more dense and well paved parts, the air seemed unusually 
healthy, and where remittents ami intermittent! were met with, 
they could almost invariably be traced to exposure to night air in the 
country or suburbs. Navel was a stronger demonstration afforded of the 
resis'ance made by cities to the influence of country malaria, than our 
late experience has furnished. (Jreat as was the amount of sickness, it 
was confined almost entir.lv to the comp.irativik mo. ill proportion of 
population inhabiting the unpaved or ill-paved environs. Our observation 
on this and other occasions, h II led us to ascribe this exemption for the 
most part to the pavements, which, bjf affecting a perfect draining. 
prevents exhalation, at the same time that it admit! the total removal of 
vegetable and animal matters, the sources of foal and unhealthy emana- 
tions. The chief motive for paving the streets and side walks, is usually 
convenience, but it has always appeared to us, that by far the most im- 
portant object achieved by it was the preservation of health. 

Whilst upon the subject of public hygiene, we cannot restrain our- 
selves from noticing another consideration connected with it, namely, 
ventilation, or a proper supply of pure unrespired air. Uy far the 
greatest proportion of the annual sickness and mortality of ordinary 
seasons is furnished by the narrow and confined alleys and courts existing 
in various parts of the town. The low terms upon which the small 
houses and rooms in such places can be obtained, causes them to be 
literally crowded with a class of population for the most part negligent 
of cleanliness, and it can occasion no surprise that there should be a 
great disparity between the proportions of sickness and mortality among 
these, compared with that which takes place in the portion living in larger 
dwellings, having a freer circulation of air. The difference just mentioned, 
though sufficiently obvious in adults, is most lamentably conspicuous in 
children. Notwithstanding the great numbers of these which die an- 
nually of cholera, we feel ourselves warranted in asserting that deaths 
from this disease are rare in houses with large and well-aired apartments, 
To one who, in the capacity of physician to a dispensary or other cha- 
rity, has been engaged in the arduous duties of attending the poor in their 
uncomfortable abodes, evidences of our assertions must be abundantly 
familiar. The numerous instances wherein the mercenary calculations 
of individuals has tempted them to put up nests of contracted tenements 
in courts or alleys admitting but little air, and yet subjected to the full 
influence of heat, has often induced us to wish that there could be some 
public regulation by which the evil might be checked. Mankind have 
inhabited cities long enough to know, from severe experience, that there 
are certain limits to the denseness of population, which, when passed, 
always lead to disease and mortality. As we think every thing tending 
to the preservation of public health must be a fit subject for legislation, 
we do not see why a law should not be procured by which the undue 
crowding of population might be prevented, and the number and size of 



FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 37 

dwellings adjusted to superficial limits. There are at present municipal 
regulations intended as a protection against conflagration, by designating 
the materials of which houses shall be constructed ; and if such precau- 
tions be deemed so important when property is ihe consideration, of how- 
much more consequence would be those for the preservation of health 
and life. 

It is common to attribute the greater mortality known to take place 
under ordinary circumstances, in large towns, among the poorer classes, 
chiefly to meagre or unwholesome food, and immoderate indulgence in 
strong liquors. But in this country, where, for a part of the year, we are 
subjected to a degree of heat little, if at all, below that of the tropics, the 
influence of both these causes in the production of disease, is, in our 
opinion, insignificant, when compared to that of breathing air that has 
been previously respired, and which, moreover, is commonly charged 
with animal and vegetable effluvia. That the same diet and habits of 
life in the country or small towns, would not be attended with a degree 
of sickness and mortality corresponding to that found in the crowded 
portions of large towns, is, we think, beyond doubt. 

In Paris, comparisons instituted between the parts chiefly occupied by 
such as live at ease, with those inhabited by the poorer orders, would 
seem to show that the proportion of mortality is regulated less by the 
density of population, than by the opposite circumstances of ease and 
poverty.* That this may be the case under the circumstances of climate 
and means of nourishment, which exist there, we will not pretend to 
deny ; but in this country, where absolute want of food, and that of the 
best kind, is unknown, the evils of poverty, we are convinced, come from 
different sources, and more especially from those we have mentioned." 

It may be asked, whether any thing may be done through 
public or private exertions, to diminish the evil influences 
operating so unfavorably upon the poorer classes? I answer, 
yes, I think, much. In the first place, as far as public mea- 
sures can be brought to bear, the authorities should be urged 
to use their utmost exertions to have the streets and alleys, 
where the poor dwell, properly regulated, and, when possible, 
paved, so that the most perfect draining may be effected. 
Where dryness about the dwellings can be insured, vegetable 
and animal decomposition is arrested, or carried on slowly, 
unhealthy emanations are prevented from accumulating, and 
thus one of the most common predisposing and exciting 
causes of disease is removed. 

In the second place, as we can scarcely hope for the inter- 
position of such municipal regulations as would prevent the 

* The results of the extensive and extremely interesting researches of M. Villot, 
relative to the changes in the population of Paris, show that the three arrondissements 
presenting the smallest portion of mortality, namely, an average of one in forty -two 
of the population per annum, are precisely those recognised as the richest, whilst the 
three presenting the greatest rate, namely, about one in twenty-five, are noted as the 
poorest. 

6 



3S CONDITION OF THE 

undue crowding of streets and dwellings, let those who exert 
an influence upon the poor, recommend them not to congre- 
gate in houses in such numbers as to produce a contamination 
of the air unfavorable to health. The over crowding of houses, 
by which a sufficient quantity of fresh air for respiration cannot 
be obtained, is a most prevailing evil. Persons who live in 
air more or less vitiated by frequent breathing, may possibly 
escape disease for a time. Still, they will not have the same 
strong health, and capacity for exertion, as though they en- 
joyed a more pure atmosphere. Hut let sickness once invade 
a family under such unfavorable circumstances, and the chances 
of recovery arc not only lessened, hut, if the disease he of a 
febrile character, it will he often rendered malignant and con- 
tagious. 

I pon this head I will relate one of the numerous cases, 
illustrating the subject, which have come under my own ob- 
servation. Three or four years since, I was (ailed upon by a 
very industrious and worthy colored man to visit his sick 
child, the last left of several that had been born to him. He 
and his wile were in the greatest tribulation at the prospect 
of losing their only child. They resided in an upper apart- 
ment of a moderate sized dwelling in Elizabeth street. Other 
rooms of the house were appropriated to a day school, and to 
the accommodation of another family. I told the anxious 
parents that it was almost useless for me to prescribe medi- 
cine for their child in such a situation, where it was exposed 
to an atmosphere contaminated by the foul air proceeding in 
the day from the school-room, and at all times from the 
family below; and that, if they wished to be healthy them- 
selves and their child, they must seek another dwelling 
where they could have purer air to breathe. My advice was 
soon followed, the sick child recovered, and, with other 
children which now occupy a house sufficiently large in the 
same street, have since seldom required the advice of a phy- 
sician. The increased rent is almost paid by the diminished 
cost of medical attendance, and value of time saved. 
I remain, with great respect, 

Yours truly, 

G. Emerson. 

To Mr. Edward Needles. 

From the above valuable information derived from Dr, 
Emerson, it will be perceived, that the apparent dispropor- 
tion in mortality between white and colored persons, may be 



FREE PEOPLE OP COLOR. 39 

rationally explained by a reference to their peculiar condition 
in life, attendant upon poverty; and that, in fact, on a comparison 
between them and the class of whites of the same grade, it is 
probable scarcely any difference would be discovered in this 
respect. 

We consider this information as an important link in the 
chain of testimony, whereby the character of this people can 
be freed from the unjust imputations cast upon them, in as 
much as it must refute the argument so often advanced, that 
the increased mortality amongst them arises from their vicious 
habits, and from self-abuse. 

It appears, also, by the observations of Dr. Emerson, that 
there has been a remarkable diminution in the mortality of 
the colored inhabitants in 1837, compared with that of pre- 
ceding years, which, (so far as their condition in life or their 
habits may operate in producing disease,) would indicate an 
improvement in these respects. 

The important suggestions of Dr. Emerson, in regard to 
ventilation, and the undue crowding of the population, &c, 
are well worthy the attention of the Society and of the public. 

Since the foregoing was prepared for the press, a friend 
has put into our hands the Juvenile Magazine, published in 
1813, by Arthur Donaldson, which contains an account of the 
schools for colored people, as they were in 1811, and in 1813. 
Also an account of the religious denominations of colored 
people, with the number of benevolent institutions, which, as 
it may be interesting to some of our readers, we have tran- 
scribed, to wit: 

Schools ml 811. 

Willing's Alley, 104 

One in Green's Court, 60 

One in Sixth st. above South, 20 

One in Lombard above Seventh, 30 

One in Seventh near Shippen, 30 

One in Sixth near South, 20 

One in Race below Fifth, 20 

A. Donalson, 50 
One in Cherry Alley, 

334 414 

There appears to be only four of the schools originally 
established for the colored people, which can be fully identified 
as now in operation; but the number of schools has greatly 
increased, as will more fully appear by reference to the list 
of schools, as exhibited at p. 29. 



Schools in 


1813. 




Willing's Alley, 




96 


Q. Clarkson, 




50 


Solomon Clarkson, 




24 


J. Gloster, 




27 


Jane Hut, 




22 


Ruth Hand, 




36 


A. Donalson, 




107 


Clarkson Hall, by the 


Abolition 




Society, 




52 



40 CONDITION" OF T1IK FREE PEOPLE OF COLOR. 

The same writer dives the following account of the places 
of public worship tor the colored people in 1813, with the 
number of members, to wit: 

Episcopal Church, St. Thomas, . . . 560 

M.-th ' ■. B< the), 1979 

Do. Union, under care of Bethel, . . 7 1 

Do. Zoar meeting, care of St. tieorge's, HO 

1 186 

Firit Baptist, between Race and Vine, and 9th andlOth sts. 80 
Mount Sion, under care of the Episcopal church, St. John 

slrei t, M ' P< mi — numbers BOt stated, 

One Presbyterian church, Seventh street, below Shippen, S00 

■ members, 

by which term, we understand, is included, besides the 
regular communicants, such orderly persons as frequently 
attend at worship. 

The number of benevolent societies in 1813, by the same 

authority is stated al 11; iggri gate number of members, 500. 
Some of these son -till in operation. 

Prequenl allusion having been made in these Reports, to 
the ag hi ployed in taking the census, &c, it is deemed 

proper to introduce them more particularly to the favorable 
notice of the Society. 

Tlie chief agent employed by the Committee, was Benja- 
min C Bacon, a Very worthy and highly respectable man, 
who having been much employed in business nearly similar, 
was found to I"- admirably qualified for the service; and the 
fidelity and judicious manner in which he performed the 
arduous duties of his appointment was very satisfactory to 
the Committee. Ili> assistant, Charles W. Gardner, a very 
intelligent and respectable colored clergyman, pastor of a 
Pm sbyterian congregation, also performed the part in which 
he was engaged to our satisfaction. And we have much 
pleasure in thus testifying our confidence in the general ac- 
curacy of the returns tbey made upon the numerous subjects 
of inquiry to which their attention was directed. 

The Committee have now presented the result of their 
labors, so far as completed. They believe, however, that a 
wide field is still opened for further services, should it be 
the pleasure of the Society to continue them. 
Respectfully submitted. 

Joseph Parrish, M. D., Chairman, 

Edward Needles, Secretary of the Committee. 



TO THE 



PEOPLE OF COLOR 



STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

We, a Committee of the Pennsylvania Society for Pro- 
moting the Abolition of Slavery, &c. &c. &c., who have 
been appointed " to collect, as far as practicable, and pre- 
serve such statistical and other information, as will show 
the present condition of the colored population of this city 
and districts, and also to communicate to them such advice 
and counsel, in relation to their rights and duties, as mem- 
bers of the community, as will, in the opinion of the Com- 
mittee, tend to elevate them in the scale of social, moral, and 
intellectual beings," do feel it incumbent on us to address 
you. 

We are fully aware that the present is to you a dark and 
gloomy day, and that the late proceedings of the Conven- 
tion, assembled in this city to propose amendments to the 
Constitution of this State, are calculated to clothe your spi- 
rits with sadness. 

It is probably unknown to many of the younger class 
among you, that the Society we represent was founded by 
an honorable generation, who have almost all passed away. 

Their efforts commenced as early as the year 1775, and, 
after an interruption of several years, during the revolu- 
tionary war, the Society renewed its labors, and in the year 
17S8 received a charter from the State of Pennsylvania, with 
Benjamin Franklin as its President. 

Associated with Franklin, in the act of incorporation, 
are to be found the names of some of our most distinguished 



Addrtsa to the 

citizens, without regard to sect or party. Not only many 
members of the Society of Friends, whose religious princi- 
ples were opposed to war, but even eminent statesmen, who 
had just emerged from the revolutionary struggle, were 
united in this righteous cause. 

When these philanthropists commenced their arduous 
duties, Pennsylvania was a slaveholding State, and many of 
your ancestors were held in bondage; but through the un- 
tiring zeal and exertion of their friends, their fetters were 
broken, and slavery was abolished in our State.* 

♦ The following Preamble to the Act of the Assembly of Pennsylva- 
nia, of the lit of March, 1780, by which slavery was abolished in our 
State, will show the feelings and opinions of the Legislature at that 
time: — 

•• \\ hen we contemplate our abhorrence of that condition, to which 
the arms and tyranny of Great Britain WBTt exerted to reduce us — when 
we look back on the variety of dangers to which we have been exposed, 
and how miraculously our wants in many instances have been supplied, 
and our deliverances wrought, when even hope and human fortitude 
have become unequal to the conflct — we are unavoidably led to a se- 
rious and grateful sense of the manifold blessings which we have onde- 
servedly received from the hand of that Being, from whom every good 
and perfect gift cometh. Impressed with these ideas, we conceive that 
it is our duty, and we rejoice that it is in our power, to extend a portion 
of that freedom to others, which hath been extended to us; and a release 
from that state of thraldom, to which we ourselves were tyrannically 
doomed, and from which we have now every prospect of being delivered, 
it is not for us to inquire why, in the creation of mankind, the inhabit- 
ants of the several parts of the earth were distinguished by a difference 
in feature or complexion It is sufficient to know that all are the work 
of an Almighty hand. We find, in the distribution of the human spe- 
cies, that the most fertile, as well as the most barren parts of the earth, 
are inhabited by men of complexions different from ours, and from each 
other; from whence we may reasonably, as well as religiously, infer, 
that He who placed them in their various situations, hath extended equal- 
ly his care and protection to all, ar.d that it becometh not us to counter- 
act his mercies. We esteem it a peculiar blessing granted to us, that 
we are enabled this day to add one more step to universal civilization, 
by removing, as much as possible, the sorrows of those who have lived 
in undeserved bondage, and from which, by the assumed authority of 
the kings of Great Britain, no effectual, legal relief, could be obtained. 
Weaned by a long course of experience, from those narrow prejudices 
and partialities we had imbibed, we find our hearts enlarged with kind- 
ness and benevolence towards men of all conditions and nations; and we 
conceive ourselves, at this particular period, extraordinarily called upon, 
by the blessings which we have received, to manifest the sincerity of 
our profession, and to give a substantial proof of our gratitude." 



People of Color. 3 

In the accomplishment of this just and noble purpose, the 
friends of the colored man had to breast the storm of preju- 
dice and passion — conscious, however, of the purity of their 
motives, and the integrity of their intentions, their philan- 
thropic course was onward. Unawed by threats, and unse- 
duced by flattery, they passed not only through good, but 
also through much evil report, until finally, with the blessing 
of Heaven, their first declared object was attained, and their 
labors were then directed not only to maintain the rights, 
but to improve and elevate the condition, of the people of 
color. 

It may be some consolation to you to receive from us a 
renewed assurance, that the same spirit which influenced our 
predecessors, in the righteous cause of abolition, still lives 
among their successors and descendants. Some of the sons 
and grandsons of these still remain, who, instead of flinching 
from the principles of their fathers, and deserting you, in 
this your hour of affliction and peril, feel increasingly con- 
cerned, with their fellow-laborers in the Society, to stand 
by you as fast friends, who are willing to suffer with you in 
persecution, and to pass through evil report for your sakes. 
It is under these impressions that this Committee now ex- 
tend such advice and counsel as they believe to be adapted 
to your present situation. 

If you should ultimately be deprived of certain rights, 
as proposed by the Convention, it will render your con- 
dition more insecure and dangerous. It was hoped by 
your friends, that at least the shield of protection would 
have been so far cast over you in Pennsylvania, that 
the midnight prowler about your peaceful dwellings would 
not have been permitted, with ruffian arm and adamantine 
heart, to tear asunder your dearest and tenderest ties. It 
was hoped that you would have the right of appeal to a jury 
of your country, which is granted, without hesitation, to any 
white citizen, who sets up the claim of ownership over a 
horse, a cow, or a pig. 



\ . /iA/;Y\.v In the 

In the present state of public feeling, so far as votes ami 
declarations in the Convention are a test, you must expect 
to meet with insult ami injury, in your public and private 
movements in the community. 

The spirit of lawless violence, which sometime since broke 
forth against yon, ami deprived many innocent persons of 
proper! v, ami one of life, may again be excited into action 
by dark and designing men. 

It cannot be concealed, for it has been spread through the 
public papers <>t the land, that you have been pronounced a 
degraded, and an accursed race, ami even the Bible has been 
quoted in Pennsylvania, to prove that slavery is a divine 
institution. 

It is under these perilous ami trying circumstances that 
we earnestly exhort you to be "wise as serpents and harm- 
dov< v ." 

It can be no diminution of your afflictions to be informed 
that some high professor> of Christianity have been actively 
engaged Sgainst you. Hut the sacred volume which has 
been appealed to, as a seal for their injustice and your degra- 
dation, may yet speak to them intones that cannot be misun- 
derstood, and the same eternal power that proclaimed on the 
mount — " Therefore, all things whatsoever ye would that 
men should do to you, do ye even so to them; for this is the 
law and the prophets," may yet bring conviction home to 
some, who, while they profess the name of Jesus Christ, 
have openly violated one of his fundamental laws. 

For your consolation and encouragement, it may be stated, 
that you have had, in the Convention, many zealous and most 
able defenders of your rights. 

Could strong and convincing argument, could fervid elo- 
quence, combined with warmth of Christian feeling, and 
supported by great weight of character, could all these have 
had their accustomed influence, then the deed for your de- 
gradation would not have been accomplished. 

One remarkable instance may be stated; the truly honora- 



People of Color. 5 

ble and dignified President of the Convention, John Sergeant, 
arrived from the city of Washington, and entered the hall 
just as the vote for the insertion of the word white in 
the Constitution was closed. Instead of his adopting a neu- 
tral course, a resolution was offered, asking permission to 
record his vote; this was granted, and, as was to be expect- 
ed, it was given in favor of the rights of man. 

Let the recorded votes of your friends and advocates in 
the Convention be carefully treasured up; let them be trans- 
mitted to your children, that so, among generations yet un- 
born, they may live in their grateful remembrance as a body 
of philanthropists, who, in the year of our Lord, 1838, bore a 
faithful testimony, in the face of all Pennsylvania, against 
the admission of the principle, that might ought to over- 
come right. 

We most earnestly exhort you, in the present alarming 
crisis, to give to all around, clear practical evidence, in life 
and conversation, that you are the followers of the Prince 
of Peace. Take him as an example; cleave to him as the 
captain of your salvation, and he will conduct you safely 
through every conflict. 

If assailed by insult and injury, so calculated as it is 
to excite resentment and revenge, remember that our Holy 
Redeemer declared — " Blessed are ye when men shall re- 
vile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil 
against you falsely for my sake." When he was reviled, 
he reviled not again. 

As you individually cherish these dispositions, they will 
aid you in advancing so far in the Christian course, that you 
will be enabled to love your enemies, to do good to them 
that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use and 
persecute you; and then who shall be able to harm you, if 
ye be followers of that which is good? 

We well know, from personal acquaintance with many of 
you, and from extensive enquiries into the real situation of 
the people of color in the city and county of Philadelphia, 



t' Address to the 

conducted lately under the direction of this Committee, that 
a large body among you have been most grossly slandered. 

Your friends, instead of avoiding an investigation into 
your respectability, property, taxes, and mutual support, also 
into the talents and attainments of your children in school 
learning, would rejoice to see an unprejudiced comparison 
made with white citizens whose advantages are equal. 

To you, who are the heads of rising families, our sympa- 
thies are particularly directed. We can enter into your feel- 
when, as parents, you have sorrowfully to behold the 
degradation of your ofispring. 

Hut be not discouraged; continue, by precept and exam- 
ple, to bring up your children in the nurture and admonition 
of the Lord; use the utmost exertions to have them well in- 
structed in school learning; leach them industry, and endea- 
vor to procure for them suitable places, where they may be 
brought up in some useful business. Thus, they will be pre- 
pared to act well their part in their various allotments in 
life, and may prove a strength and a comfort to their parents 
in declining age. 

We have long been most favorably impressed with the 
importance of your associations for mutual aid, in times of 
sickness and destitution, and in extending care over each 
other in the common walks of life. Be encouraged in the 
performance of these Christian duties, affectionately watch- 
ing over each other for good, and showing to each other an 
example of industry, honesty, and sobriety, combined with 
neatness and economy. 

That there are to be found in the community many white 
and colored persons who yield to temptation, and are led 
into drunkenness and other crimes, which can mostly be 
traced to intemperance, we have sorrowfully to admit; and 
yet we hope, that active and judicious exertions in the tem- 
perance cause may aid in abating the evil. 

You are especially called upon to exert all the influence 
you possess over each other to induce evil disposed per- 



People of Color. 7 

to change their course of life; persuade, entreat, and set 
them a good example and these labors may yet be blessed. 

Join with us in endeavoring to show these deluded vic- 
tims of vice, that by their conduct your difficulties are greatly 
increased; for, in the present state of public feeling, there is 
too much of a disposition to make the great body of the peo- 
ple of color answerable for the sins of a few. 

Unite with us in impressing the important fact, that almost 
all the licensed, as well as unlicensed shops, or groceries, as 
they are often termed, for the retailing of spirituous liquors, 
are kept by white men. It is these dram sellers who are 
the deadly enemies of the people of color; they entice and 
lead them into wickedness; they filch them of their hard 
earnings, and then join in raising the hue and cry against 
them, as lazy and drunken vagabonds. 

In conclusion, we say unto you, be not cast down, neither 
dismayed; although, in the inscrutable dispensations of Pro- 
vidence, you are now partaking largely of the wormwood 
and the gall, yet remember, that our blessed Lord and Sa- 
viour Jesus Christ bade his disciples to be of good cheer, 
for although in this world they should have tribulation, yet 
in him they should have peace. 

Seek after this peace, for it is above all price; look to that 
power that permits not a sparrow to fall to the ground with- 
out divine notice; and surely ye are of more value than many 
sparrows. Remember, that the Lord's hand is not shorten- 
ed that it cannot save, neither his ear heavy that it cannot 
hear; but for the cries of the oppressed, and the sighing of 
the needy, he will arise, with healing in his wings. 

Cast, then, all your care and confidence upon our Al- 
mighty Creator, who has made of one blood all the fami- 
lies of men, and has endowed them with equal and inaliena- 
ble rights. He it is that sustains the character of an holy 
and compassionate father; he can conduct you safely through 
all the afflictions and trials of time, and can finally grant 






8 Address to the People of Color. 

you an admission into th.it glorious ami celestial <-ity. irhere- 
in sorrows :m<l tears arc- unknown, when- the wicked cease 
from troubling, and the weary arc at rest 

JOSEPH PARR1SR, 
ISAAC BARTON, 
EDWARD NEEDLES, 
JAMES MOTT, 
JOSEPH M. TRUMAN, 
\\ M. HARNED, 
DANIEL NEALL, 
PETER WKIC.HT, 
BDWARD HOPPER, 
JOSHUA RHOADS, 
L. C. GUNN, 
Isaac PARR18H. 

Philadelphia, Second Month, I ■'• 1^38. 






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3INDERY INC. 

DEC 93 






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N. MANCHESTER, 
INDIANA 46962 







